Family plays an integral role in the political career of Cong. Gus and Cong. Joy Tambunting.
Being the eldest grandson of former movie queen Mila Del Sol may have opened doors for Gus in politics, but it was his hard work and sincere concern for the people that earned him the support of his constituents throughout his long career.
“My business acumen came from my dad but the discipline and tenacity to get things in order and being able to organize well, I feel, I got from my mother,” Gus said.
His parents supported him in his every endeavor. Every time Gus ran for office, the campaign was always a collaborative effort between Gus’ parents and his wife, Joy, to ensure his victory.
Now, as public servants with children of their own, Gus and Joy taught them to treat their constituents as extended family.
“On Sundays, we’d go to different places and attend fiestas or meetings. There are days when I would accompany my Dad and he would go to five different places, all before lunch time. We’d go to a meeting, there will be a binyag or a wedding that he’s invited to as a ninong. I’m really impressed with how he shares his time with other people. Growing up, it became our quality time. I saw how my parents were very kind towards others, how they cared for the welfare of other people, and how our family is not just us, it’s everyone. We treat everyone in our community as family, we treat them with respect and love,” the eldest son, Isaac recalled.
“Sanay kami na mga artista ang nasa entablado ng kalaban and since kami wala naman kaming pambayad sa artistagrowing upkami-kami lang ang nasa stage. We did house-to-house campaigning for Dad,” Chelsea shared.
Understanding the complexity of their parents’ chosen paths, Isaac, Chelsea and Jacob extend whatever support they can to give their parents a strong sense of stability and inspiration. Whether it’s by drafting write-ups or distributing food packs, the Tambunting family stands united in serving their extended family, the people of Parañaque.